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Why Make This Recipe
Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls are a fantastic dish for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. With their perfect blend of flavors and satisfying texture, these tofu balls are sure to impress your taste buds. They are easy to make, plant-based, and packed with protein. Whether you are a tofu lover or just curious about trying something new, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
How to Make Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls
Ingredients
- 1 block Tofu (Pressed to remove excess moisture)
- 2 tablespoons Corn Starch (Key for crispy exterior)
- 4 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Low-sodium optional)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetarian Oyster Sauce (Or hoisin sauce)
- 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (Chinese black vinegar alternative)
- 1 tablespoon Sugar (Brown sugar recommended)
- 1/4 cup Water (To balance sauce consistency)
- 2 stalks Scallion (Use both green and white parts)
- 1 medium Shallot (Or red onion)
- 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Any bell pepper variety works)
- 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil (Or sesame oil for flavor)
Directions
Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. This step is important to ensure the tofu holds its shape when cooked.
In a large bowl, crumble the pressed tofu into small pieces.
Add the corn starch, minced garlic, soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and water to the bowl. Mix everything until well combined.
Finely chop the scallions, shallot, and red bell pepper. Add these chopped vegetables to the tofu mixture and stir well.
Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
Heat the neutral oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the tofu balls in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden and crispy on all sides, about 3-5 minutes per side.
Once cooked, remove the tofu balls from the pan and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
How to Serve Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls
Serve these savory tofu balls hot as an appetizer or as a main dish. They pair wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. Drizzle a bit of extra soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on top for added flavor. Garnish with additional chopped scallions for a fresh touch.
How to Store Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls
To store leftover tofu balls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 4 days. When you want to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in a pan or in the oven until they are warmed through.
Tips to Make Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls
- Make sure to press the tofu thoroughly to avoid soggy tofu balls.
- You can add other veggies like carrots or zucchini for extra flavor and color.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Variation
You can swap out tofu for tempeh if you like a heartier texture. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different sauces or spices to make the recipe your own.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls?
Yes! You can freeze the tofu balls before cooking. Just make sure to place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are firm, then transfer to a freezer bag.
2. What can I serve with these tofu balls?
They go well with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. You can also add them to a stir-fry for a complete meal.
3. Can I bake these tofu balls instead of frying them?
Absolutely! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
Savory Soy Garlic Tofu Balls
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. This step is important to ensure the tofu holds its shape when cooked.
- In a large bowl, crumble the pressed tofu into small pieces.
- Add the corn starch, minced garlic, soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and water to the bowl. Mix everything until well combined.
- Finely chop the scallions, shallot, and red bell pepper. Add these chopped vegetables to the tofu mixture and stir well.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- Heat the neutral oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the tofu balls in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden and crispy on all sides, about 3-5 minutes per side.
- Once cooked, remove the tofu balls from the pan and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve these savory tofu balls hot as an appetizer or as a main dish. They pair wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. Drizzle a bit of extra soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on top for added flavor. Garnish with additional chopped scallions for a fresh touch.